The Remarkable Story of Curt Harper, Surfing Mentor and Local Legend

Curt Harper is a 50-year-old competitive surfer and beloved mentor to Southern California's "groms" (young surfers). Diagnosed with autism as a child, a doctor recommended that Harper be institutionalized; his parents refused and instead fostered their son's love of surfing. Now a fixture in the surf scene, this short documentary from Westward Productions highlights Harper's integral role in the community. "Everybody [who] surfs in Southern California knows Curt. He's famous," says protégé Dane Reynolds.

The Short Film Showcase spotlights exceptional short videos created by filmmakers from around the web and selected by National Geographic editors. We look for work that affirms National Geographic's belief in the power of science, exploration, and storytelling to change the world. The filmmakers created the content presented, and the opinions expressed are their own, not those of the National Geographic Society.

Know of a great short film that should be part of our Showcase? Email SFS@ngs.org to submit a video for consideration.

The Remarkable Story of Curt Harper, Surfing Mentor and Local Legend

Curt Harper is a 50-year-old competitive surfer and beloved mentor to Southern California's "groms" (young surfers). Diagnosed with autism as a child, a doctor recommended that Harper be institutionalized; his parents refused and instead fostered their son's love of surfing. Now a fixture in the surf scene, this short documentary from Westward Productions highlights Harper's integral role in the community. "Everybody [who] surfs in Southern California knows Curt. He's famous," says protégé Dane Reynolds.

The Short Film Showcase spotlights exceptional short videos created by filmmakers from around the web and selected by National Geographic editors. We look for work that affirms National Geographic's belief in the power of science, exploration, and storytelling to change the world. The filmmakers created the content presented, and the opinions expressed are their own, not those of the National Geographic Society.

Know of a great short film that should be part of our Showcase? Email SFS@ngs.org to submit a video for consideration.